Publicis Sapient, the digital transformation hub of Publicis Groupe, has appointed Ian Wharton as executive creative director, joining the company’s global experience team.

Wharton, who will be based in London, will drive design excellence within Publicis Sapient’s global experience capability, with a focus on quality in craft.

The recently established experience team – led by chief experience officer and Silicon Valley alumni John Maeda – blends data, machine learning, and creativity to devise customer-centric experiences that deliver exceptional value to both clients and their customers. Wharton will play a role in shaping and integrating Publicis Sapient’s capabilities to best assist clients in their digital transformation efforts.

Wharton joins Publicis Sapient following six years at AKQA where he served as part of the global creative leadership team. As a visionary digital native, he brings a wealth of experience in design, having worked for global clients such as Formula 1 and Volvo Cars helping them to craft new products and brands for the digital age. His credentials also include being one of four founding partners of technology startup Zolmo and leading the creative for Apple Design Award-winning apps developed in joint venture with Jamie Oliver.

Maeda says, “Ian Wharton represents the new ‘digitally native’ generation of senior leaders with a history of bringing a necessary spark to some of the world’s most interesting businesses"

Ben Mooge, chief creative officer, adds, "I’m so excited to be welcoming Ian to Publicis Groupe. His track record speaks for itself, but if I can also speak for him, he’s a wonderful storytelling designer and great creative leader who will be a fantastic asset for Publicis Sapient and the whole Groupe.”